when to stop sleeping on belly during pregnancy

It is generally safe to sleep on your belly during the first trimester of pregnancy (weeks 1-12) while the baby is still very small and your uterus is protected. However, as your belly grows, especially starting around 16 to 18 weeks (mid-second trimester), sleeping on your stomach becomes uncomfortable and less practical. By the middle of the second trimester and especially into the third trimester (weeks 29-40), it is recommended to stop sleeping on your belly altogether. At this stage, the belly is too large, and lying on your stomach can put pressure on the baby and your internal organs. The safest and most comfortable sleeping position later in pregnancy is on your side, with many experts recommending the left side to improve blood flow to the placenta and reduce risks. If you find it hard to make the transition, using pregnancy pillows to support your body can help. In summary, most women stop sleeping on their belly by the middle of the second trimester, around 16 to 20 weeks, and certainly by the start of the third trimester to ensure comfort and safety.